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A spokesman for the budget airline said the smoke had been caused by a “technical issue”.

An easyJet spokesman said: “The Captain of flight EZY7215 from Liverpool to Naples took the decision to divert to London Gatwick Airport as a precaution due to a technical issue which resulted in smoke in the flight deck.

“The flight diverted to London Gatwick in line with our standard operating procedures. The aircraft landed safely and was met by emergency services as a routine and precautionary measure. Once at its stand all passengers remained calm and disembarked normally.

“The safety of its passengers and crew is easyJet's highest priority and easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers’ guidelines.

“easyJet would like to thank passengers for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

He added: “At no point was the safety of passengers threatened.”

Passenger Richard Caddy said the captain of the plane informed the passengers he had to land the plane on oxygen.

He said: "Pilot was great just for keeping us informed throughout. Really kept a lid on things."

Richard also tweeted after the plane landed: "The captain just told us he's been on oxygen. Well done that man."

Imogen Scott, who was a passenger on the flight, tweeted: "Cheeky emergency landing in London Gatwick! Oh dear #EasyJet #Gatwick #tired."

She said people were taken to the departure lounge temporarily before boarding a new plane.

Meanwhile, passengers had to be evacuated from the North Terminal departure lounge after a fire alarm was activated in the Garfunkel's restaurant.

An airport spokeswoman said the false alarm happened at 08.30 BST and lasted about 20 minutes.

Passengers were kept airside while the lounge was isolated, she added.